Kicking the Habit for Good
More than three million Americans quit smoking permanently every year. And you can, too! Don't despair, even if you have tried and failed in the past. By choosing the right approach and keeping a positive attitude, you'll see that there still is hope to kick the habit. Some people are successful quitting "cold turkey," while others slowly decrease the number of cigarettes per day until they quit. Some even need the assistance of medical professionals. Choose the method that best suits you--and your lifestyle. Whichever method you choose, the following tips may also pave the way for a new, smoke-free you!
Preparing yourself for the quit-day
Pick a target date for quitting, perhaps a special day such as your birthday or anniversary. Another good day to quit is The Great American Smokeout, on November 16. Whatever the day, make it sacred and don't let anything change it. This commitment makes it easier for you to keep track of the day you became a non smoker and to celebrate that date every year.
In the days and weeks leading up to your quit date, change brands. Use a brand that doesn't taste quite as good as your favorite. This less satisfying brand may make quitting easier.
Make smoking an inconvenient habit. Stop carrying cigarettes with you and smoke only outdoors. Buy another pack only after you have run out, and never buy cigarettes by the carton.
Go to places where smoking is not permitted, such as libraries, museums, theaters, department stores, and churches.
Staying smoke-free
Once you have quit, stay strong. Never, ever, allow yourself to believe that "just one cigarette won't hurt." If you make this concession, you can guarantee yourself that you will have another--making quitting much more difficult.
Occasionally, you will crave a cigarette. To help yourself overcome the temptation, think of the meaningful reasons why you quit smoking--to achieve better health, feel better, save money, and live long enough to see your grandchildren.
Occupy your hands with crossword puzzles, needlework, gardening or household chores. You also can use oral substitutes, such as gum, raisins, sunflower seeds or carrot sticks.
During your first smoke-free week, avoid places and things you associate with smoking, such as bars, bowling alleys or an after-dinner cocktail. The withdrawal symptoms you experience during this time are temporary, lasting only a week or so. At this point, your body is still dependent on nicotine. That's why many people resume smoking during this time. With will-power, commitment and the support of family and friends, you CAN make it through.
Watch out for unexpected situational triggers, such as a particularly stressful events that occur within the first three months after quitting. Being aware of these dangers can keep you on your toes and help you resist the urge to smoke.
A final thought
Many people are reluctant to quit smoking because of the possibility of gaining weight. Although unpleasant, weight gain is not a good reason to keep smoking. The many health benefits that result from "kicking the habit" far outweigh the drawbacks of putting on a few pounds. In fact, you would have to gain many pounds to offset the benefits of being smoke-free. So take the plunge and give it another try. Your mind, your body and your loved ones will be glad that you did!